News & Media
Follow along with Historic Madison, Inc. as we play a key role in the preservation, restoration, education, and development of the Madison, Indiana National Historic Landmark District.
Embedded Files
Become a preservation partner with a tax-deductible gift today!
August 14, 2026
August 14, 2026
Sullivan House Restoration is Awarded Two Major Challenge Gifts
Sullivan House Restoration is Awarded Two Major Challenge Gifts
Historic Madison, Inc. (HMI) announces the award of two challenge gifts to support the restoration of the Jeremiah Sullivan House. Morgan Foods, Inc., of Austin, IN, is challenging donors locally and nationwide to match its $200,000 gift to HMI. Gifts given for a limited time will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Morgan Challenge to raise an additional $200,000 for the restoration. Morgan Foods believes strongly in this nationally significant restoration project and wants to spur additional gifts from the community and from across the US, in recognition of HMI’s efforts.
Historic Madison, Inc. (HMI) announces the award of two challenge gifts to support the restoration of the Jeremiah Sullivan House. Morgan Foods, Inc., of Austin, IN, is challenging donors locally and nationwide to match its $200,000 gift to HMI. Gifts given for a limited time will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Morgan Challenge to raise an additional $200,000 for the restoration. Morgan Foods believes strongly in this nationally significant restoration project and wants to spur additional gifts from the community and from across the US, in recognition of HMI’s efforts.
An additional challenge grant from the Jeffris Family Foundation of Janesville, WI, will increase gifts and pledges for the Sullivan House restoration by 50%, also for a limited time. Tom Jeffris, Foundation President, noted, “We are happy to extend this opportunity. We appreciate the dedication of smaller cities like Madison to make sure its historic character, and a landmark like the Sullivan House, is passed on to future generations.”
An additional challenge grant from the Jeffris Family Foundation of Janesville, WI, will increase gifts and pledges for the Sullivan House restoration by 50%, also for a limited time. Tom Jeffris, Foundation President, noted, “We are happy to extend this opportunity. We appreciate the dedication of smaller cities like Madison to make sure its historic character, and a landmark like the Sullivan House, is passed on to future generations.”
John Staicer, HMI President and Executive Director, stated, “The Sullivan House at 304 West Second Street is one of the earliest and most important Federal-style homes in Indiana because of its sophisticated design, its degree of preservation, and the Sullivan family’s association with the broad currents of local, state, and American history.” He continued, “These generous gifts illustrate how important the Sullivan House is viewed locally and also from a national perspective. We are deeply thankful to John Morgan and Kelly Morgan Maciejak for their strong commitment to preservation in Madison. We are also honored by the Jeffris Family Foundation, which assists nationally significant preservation projects in small Midwestern towns.”
John Staicer, HMI President and Executive Director, stated, “The Sullivan House at 304 West Second Street is one of the earliest and most important Federal-style homes in Indiana because of its sophisticated design, its degree of preservation, and the Sullivan family’s association with the broad currents of local, state, and American history.” He continued, “These generous gifts illustrate how important the Sullivan House is viewed locally and also from a national perspective. We are deeply thankful to John Morgan and Kelly Morgan Maciejak for their strong commitment to preservation in Madison. We are also honored by the Jeffris Family Foundation, which assists nationally significant preservation projects in small Midwestern towns.”
July 10, 2026
July 10, 2026
Historic 2nd Presbyterian Church Building Returns to Its Roots
Historic 2nd Presbyterian Church Building Returns to Its Roots
A nationally significant landmark in the heart of the Madison, Indiana, National Historic Landmark District is entering a vibrant new chapter. Historic Madison, Inc. announced today the official sale of the iconic 2nd Presbyterian Church/Windle Auditorium building, located at 500 West St., to the Madison Reformed Church.
A nationally significant landmark in the heart of the Madison, Indiana, National Historic Landmark District is entering a vibrant new chapter. Historic Madison, Inc. announced today the official sale of the iconic 2nd Presbyterian Church/Windle Auditorium building, located at 500 West St., to the Madison Reformed Church.
The transition of ownership secures a bright future for this impressive Greek Revival structure, built in 1835. Rather than facing commercial redevelopment, the building will once again be a dedicated house of worship and a place of welcome for the community.
The transition of ownership secures a bright future for this impressive Greek Revival structure, built in 1835. Rather than facing commercial redevelopment, the building will once again be a dedicated house of worship and a place of welcome for the community.
"We are absolutely thrilled that this beautiful, historic space will return to its roots and serve a spiritual and community-focused mission," said John Staicer, President & Executive Director. "Buildings like this hold the stories, memories, and history of our community and our nation. Passing the torch to a passionate new congregation ensures that its legacy of service continues for generations to come."
"We are absolutely thrilled that this beautiful, historic space will return to its roots and serve a spiritual and community-focused mission," said John Staicer, President & Executive Director. "Buildings like this hold the stories, memories, and history of our community and our nation. Passing the torch to a passionate new congregation ensures that its legacy of service continues for generations to come."
The 191-year-old building is the earliest place of public assembly in the Madison National Historic Landmark District, predating all other churches and community structures. Designed by architect Edwin Peck, it is known for its Greek temple-inspired design. Included with the building is a rare 1867 organ, one of a few completely intact, restored, operable organs from the 1860s in the US.
The 191-year-old building is the earliest place of public assembly in the Madison National Historic Landmark District, predating all other churches and community structures. Designed by architect Edwin Peck, it is known for its Greek temple-inspired design. Included with the building is a rare 1867 organ, one of a few completely intact, restored, operable organs from the 1860s in the US.
Second Presbyterian Church founders included early Madison luminaries like financier J.F.D. Lanier, Indiana Supreme Court Justice Jeremiah Sullivan, and Governor William Hendricks. Notable 19th-century clergy, such as Lyman Beecher and Henry Ward Beecher, preached there.
Second Presbyterian Church founders included early Madison luminaries like financier J.F.D. Lanier, Indiana Supreme Court Justice Jeremiah Sullivan, and Governor William Hendricks. Notable 19th-century clergy, such as Lyman Beecher and Henry Ward Beecher, preached there.
Since 1835, the facility has hosted numerous worship services, revivals, programs, civic meetings, and milestone life events for thousands of local residents. Historic Madison bought the building in 1961 as a multi-use space for community organizations, events, concerts, and art shows. It was the headquarters for Historic Madison, Inc. (HMI) from 1975 to 2021, and the offices for the pilot Main Street Project from 1976 to 1980. The sanctuary was named in memory of HMI’s founder, John T. Windle, in 1987.
Since 1835, the facility has hosted numerous worship services, revivals, programs, civic meetings, and milestone life events for thousands of local residents. Historic Madison bought the building in 1961 as a multi-use space for community organizations, events, concerts, and art shows. It was the headquarters for Historic Madison, Inc. (HMI) from 1975 to 2021, and the offices for the pilot Main Street Project from 1976 to 1980. The sanctuary was named in memory of HMI’s founder, John T. Windle, in 1987.
For Collin Welch and the Madison Reformed Church, which formed in 2021, finding a permanent home that resonated with their vision for the future of the congregation was paramount.
For Collin Welch and the Madison Reformed Church, which formed in 2021, finding a permanent home that resonated with their vision for the future of the congregation was paramount.
"Having grown up just across the street from this beautiful building, it is surreal to step into it now with the congregation I serve,” stated Pastor Welch. He continued, “Although we are a relatively new local church, our roots go deep, and we are ready both to honor the historic character of the 2nd Presbyterian Church/Windle Auditorium and to welcome our community with the love of Jesus Christ. We are humbled by this opportunity."
"Having grown up just across the street from this beautiful building, it is surreal to step into it now with the congregation I serve,” stated Pastor Welch. He continued, “Although we are a relatively new local church, our roots go deep, and we are ready both to honor the historic character of the 2nd Presbyterian Church/Windle Auditorium and to welcome our community with the love of Jesus Christ. We are humbled by this opportunity."
The congregation will announce plans to host a community open house and inaugural celebration service at a later time.
The congregation will announce plans to host a community open house and inaugural celebration service at a later time.
February 20, 2026
February 20, 2026
Historic Madison, Inc. Announces Retirement of Longtime Executive Director John Staicer; Launches Search for Successor
Historic Madison, Inc. Announces Retirement of Longtime Executive Director John Staicer; Launches Search for Successor
The Board of Directors of Historic Madison, Inc. announced today that John Staicer, who has served as Executive Director for 23 years, will retire effective December 31, 2026. Under Staicer’s leadership, Historic Madison has undergone a period of transformative growth. Notable achievements during his tenure include award-winning preservation projects, the designation of the Madison National Historic Landmark District, advocacy for many community-wide improvements and enhancements, and a nearly 80% increase in the organization’s assets. "It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as a steward of our community’s rich history," said Staicer. "Madison’s nationally significant historic architecture and its preservation form the backbone of everything Madisonians love about this community. It is about more than just old buildings; it’s about the stories they tell, the identity they provide for our citizens, and the economic opportunity they offer. I am incredibly proud of what our team of board members, volunteers, donors, and staff has accomplished together." The Board of Directors expressed deep gratitude for Staicer’s vision and leadership. "John has been the heart and soul of historic preservation in Madison," said Board Chair Kevin Yancey. "He began working for HMI in 1991 as the Director of the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Project. This led to his appointment as Executive Director in 2003. HMI will continue to benefit from Staicer’s experience, as he will remain active in the organization as its President and help with the transition to the new Executive Director. He has built upon a solid foundation to create an even more robust organization and leaves a legacy that will be felt for decades. We wish him the very best as he steps down from day-to-day activities."
The Board of Directors of Historic Madison, Inc. announced today that John Staicer, who has served as Executive Director for 23 years, will retire effective December 31, 2026. Under Staicer’s leadership, Historic Madison has undergone a period of transformative growth. Notable achievements during his tenure include award-winning preservation projects, the designation of the Madison National Historic Landmark District, advocacy for many community-wide improvements and enhancements, and a nearly 80% increase in the organization’s assets. "It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as a steward of our community’s rich history," said Staicer. "Madison’s nationally significant historic architecture and its preservation form the backbone of everything Madisonians love about this community. It is about more than just old buildings; it’s about the stories they tell, the identity they provide for our citizens, and the economic opportunity they offer. I am incredibly proud of what our team of board members, volunteers, donors, and staff has accomplished together." The Board of Directors expressed deep gratitude for Staicer’s vision and leadership. "John has been the heart and soul of historic preservation in Madison," said Board Chair Kevin Yancey. "He began working for HMI in 1991 as the Director of the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Project. This led to his appointment as Executive Director in 2003. HMI will continue to benefit from Staicer’s experience, as he will remain active in the organization as its President and help with the transition to the new Executive Director. He has built upon a solid foundation to create an even more robust organization and leaves a legacy that will be felt for decades. We wish him the very best as he steps down from day-to-day activities."
A Legacy of Preservation
A Legacy of Preservation
Staicer spearheaded the nationally award-winning restoration of the Schroeder Saddletree Factory, transforming it into a unique industrial museum. He oversaw the Cook Cup prize-winning restoration of the Shrewsbury-Windle House National Historic Landmark. He also led the restoration of the: ● AME Church building, built in 1850 and one of the oldest purpose-built for use by the African Methodist Episcopal congregation in the US ● Francis Costigan House, the home of one of Indiana’s leading pre-Civil War architects. Costigan designed the Shrewsbury-Windle House and the Lanier Mansion, National Historic Landmarks ● Dr. Hutchings Office & Museum, one of the best preserved medical history restorations in the US. He is currently overseeing two major restorations - at St. Michael the Archangel, one of the oldest buildings in Indiana, built as a Catholic Church, and the ca. 1820 Jeremiah Sullivan House, home of Indiana Supreme Court Justice Jeremiah Sullivan, who is credited with naming Indianapolis as Indiana’s capital city when he was an early state legislator. Staicer has helped the organization raise nearly $10 million to support the organization’s preservation and restoration mission. He has also overseen two strategic plans, which have assured the long-term sustainability of the organization, including the sale of a number of its properties to private owners, who have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars to inject new life into their neighborhoods. HMI has also launched new programs, including a concert series, preservation workshops, a scholarship, and other educational initiatives. The organization’s outreach continues to grow via social media and internet presence. He also helped to focus a national spotlight on the community’s preservation accomplishments through his involvement with a variety of workshops and conferences held in Madison and the surrounding area.
Staicer spearheaded the nationally award-winning restoration of the Schroeder Saddletree Factory, transforming it into a unique industrial museum. He oversaw the Cook Cup prize-winning restoration of the Shrewsbury-Windle House National Historic Landmark. He also led the restoration of the: ● AME Church building, built in 1850 and one of the oldest purpose-built for use by the African Methodist Episcopal congregation in the US ● Francis Costigan House, the home of one of Indiana’s leading pre-Civil War architects. Costigan designed the Shrewsbury-Windle House and the Lanier Mansion, National Historic Landmarks ● Dr. Hutchings Office & Museum, one of the best preserved medical history restorations in the US. He is currently overseeing two major restorations - at St. Michael the Archangel, one of the oldest buildings in Indiana, built as a Catholic Church, and the ca. 1820 Jeremiah Sullivan House, home of Indiana Supreme Court Justice Jeremiah Sullivan, who is credited with naming Indianapolis as Indiana’s capital city when he was an early state legislator. Staicer has helped the organization raise nearly $10 million to support the organization’s preservation and restoration mission. He has also overseen two strategic plans, which have assured the long-term sustainability of the organization, including the sale of a number of its properties to private owners, who have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars to inject new life into their neighborhoods. HMI has also launched new programs, including a concert series, preservation workshops, a scholarship, and other educational initiatives. The organization’s outreach continues to grow via social media and internet presence. He also helped to focus a national spotlight on the community’s preservation accomplishments through his involvement with a variety of workshops and conferences held in Madison and the surrounding area.
Community Enhancements
Community Enhancements
HMI, under Staicer’s leadership, supported and assisted numerous community projects, including:
HMI, under Staicer’s leadership, supported and assisted numerous community projects, including:
- The construction of the current Madison Milton Bridge and its approach in the Madison Historic District
- Lydia Middleton School rehabilitation & addition 2
- Jefferson County Jail addition (now being studied for a new use)
- Jefferson County Courthouse reconstruction after a disastrous fire
- City of Madison Historic District Guidelines
- City Masterplan
- Establishment of the City’s Preservation and Community Enhancement grant program committee
- Collaborating with the City on the Ohio River Legacy Park project and many other initiatives
Over the past 35 years, Staicer has been involved in a number of leadership roles, including the Madison Main Street Project (board member and President, the Madison Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (board member and President, now VisitMadison, Inc.), Prince of Peace Parish Council member, Association of Indiana Museums board member, and many other community enhancement initiatives.
Over the past 35 years, Staicer has been involved in a number of leadership roles, including the Madison Main Street Project (board member and President, the Madison Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (board member and President, now VisitMadison, Inc.), Prince of Peace Parish Council member, Association of Indiana Museums board member, and many other community enhancement initiatives.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse